Ready to step into your favourite TV show? From the romantic charm of Paris to the sun-soaked beauty of Italy, your favourite TV series have probably sparked the travel itch within you. Let's turn those daydreams into reality!
This blog post will take you on a journey through some of the most iconic destinations featured in recent hit series, perfect for adventurous souls.
Paris: Live your own "Emily in Paris" adventure
Paris is calling, and it's your turn to shine like Emily Cooper. The City of Light isn't just a TV set - it's your playground waiting to happen.
No, you might not land a fancy marketing job or get tangled in wild romances, but who needs scripted drama when real Paris is at your fingertips? Picture this: you, sipping coffee at a cute café, with the Eiffel Tower playing peekaboo in the background. Or how about a sunset walk by the Seine, munching on a fresh baguette while street musicians set the mood?
Get lost in Montmartre's winding streets, where creativity hides around every corner. Window-shop on the Champs-Élysées and pretend you're a fashion guru. From picnics in pretty parks to late-night museum visits, Paris is ready for your close-up. Who knows? Your adventures might be even more exciting than Emily's!
So, grab your suitcase (and maybe a cute beret) and get ready to star in your own Paris story. It's time to turn those daydreams into real-life memories that'll beat any TV show.
Must-visit spots from the show:
- Place de l'Estrapade: Snap a selfie in front of Emily's iconic apartment building.
- Jardin du Palais Royal: Enjoy a picnic lunch where Emily first meets Mindy.
- Café de l'Homme: Sip champagne with a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower.
- La Boulangerie Moderne: Indulge in a pain au chocolat from Emily's favourite bakery.
- Place de Valois: Admire the exterior of Emily's workplace at 6 Place de Valois.
Beyond the show:
- Take a pastry-making class and master the art of French patisserie.
- Explore the hidden passages of Le Marais, filled with trendy boutiques and art galleries.
- Enjoy a sunset Seine river cruise with a glass of wine in hand.
Sicily: Indulge in "The White Lotus" luxury
Get ready for a Sicilian adventure that'll knock your socks off! "The White Lotus" might've shown you the glitzy side, but trust me, this Italian island has way more up its sleeve than just fancy resorts and rich people drama.
Picture this: you're standing in front of a massive old temple that's been around since before your great-great-great-grandparents were even a twinkle in someone's eye. That's Sicily for you - it's like stepping into a time machine, but with better food!
Speaking of food, forget about your diet because Sicily's gonna tempt you at every turn. We're talking pizza that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance, pasta that'll have you saying "Mamma mia!" and gelato so good you'll want to marry it. And don't even get me started on the cannolis - they're not just for leaving the gun, you know?
Now, let's talk beaches.
The show gave you a peek but imagine dipping your toes into water so clear you can see fish playing hide-and-seek with your feet. It's like swimming in a giant bathtub, except it's the Mediterranean and it's way cooler.
And the towns? They're like something out of a fairy tale, but with more espresso and people gesturing wildly as they talk. Narrow streets wind up hillsides, with flowerpots hanging from balconies and old ladies peeking out their windows to see what's going on.
So forget about the show's fancy-pants problems. In real-life Sicily, you'll be too busy stuffing your face with arancini, getting lost in maze-like towns, and soaking up sun on beaches that'll make your Instagram followers green with envy.
Who knows? By the end of your trip, you might be dramatically throwing your hands up and yelling "Mamma mia!" just like a true Sicilian. Now that's a vacation worth writing home about!
Key locations from the show:
- San Domenico Palace, Taormina: The real-life White Lotus hotel.
- Noto: Explore the baroque architecture featured in the show.
- Cefalù: Visit the picturesque beach town where Harper and Daphne spent a girls' trip.
- Ancient Theatre: Visit the Greek-Roman amphitheatre with stunning coastal views.
- Caffè Sicilia, Noto: Try the famous almond granita at this historic cafe.
Additional experiences to not miss out on:
- Take a Mount Etna wine tour and sample volcanic vintages.
- Join a hands-on cooking class to master Sicilian specialties.
- Embark on a boat tour of the Aeolian Islands, with stops for swimming in secluded coves.
Scottish Highlands: Channel your inner "Outlander"
While "Outlander" may have premiered a few years ago, its impact on Scottish tourism continues to grow. Immerse yourself in the rugged landscapes and rich history that bring Claire and Jamie's story to life. From the mysterious standing stones of Craigh na Dun (inspired by real ancient sites like Clava Cairns) to the majestic halls of Castle Leoch (filmed at Doune Castle), Scotland is bursting with locations that'll make you feel like you've time-travelled right into the heart of the story.
But hold onto your kilts, folks, because Scotland's got even more up its tartan sleeve! Imagine trekking through the misty highlands, where every crag and glen whispers tales of clan battles and forbidden love. You might not stumble upon a dashing highlander (sorry, ladies and gents), but you could find yourself sipping whisky in a centuries-old pub, learning to play the bagpipes (warning: it's harder than it looks), or even trying on your own clan tartan. And if you're feeling brave, why not take a dip in a chilly loch? It's said to be better than coffee for waking you up!
From the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh's Old Town to the wild, windswept beaches of the Outer Hebrides, Scotland has plenty of things to explore.
So, grab your favourite sassenach and get ready for a journey that'll have you shouting "Och aye!" in no time.
Iconic sites:
- Doune Castle: The real-life Castle Leoch.
- Culloden Battlefield: Walk the grounds of this pivotal historical site.
- Glencoe: Marvel at the breathtaking scenery of the Highlands.
Beyond the time travel:
- Take a whisky distillery tour and tasting in Speyside.
- Try your hand at traditional Scottish sports like caber tossing.
- Join a ghost tour in Edinburgh's spooky underground vaults.
Croatia: Experience "Game of Thrones" grandeur
Dubrovnik's transformation into King's Landing has left a lasting mark on Croatia's tourism. While the show has ended, the country's allure for fantasy fans and history buffs remains strong. Walk the stone streets where Cersei faced shame, climb city walls that withstood fictional sieges, or sip wine in hidden bars channelling Tyrion's plotting spirit.
But Croatia's magic extends beyond Dubrovnik! Kayak to hidden caves worthy of smugglers, hike through Krka National Park's fairy-tale waterfalls, or visit the ethereal Blue Cave. Feast on fresh seafood and wines that would impress even the most discerning Lannister. From the Adriatic's sun-soaked islands to Istria's rolling hills, Croatia offers an adventure rivalling any epic saga.
Ready to write your own legendary tale in this land of real-life fantasy?
Must-see locations:
- Dubrovnik Old Town: Walk the city walls and explore the setting for King's Landing.
- Diocletian's Palace, Split: Wander through Daenerys' throne room.
- Krka National Park: Discover waterfalls worthy of the Seven Kingdoms.
Additional adventures:
- Go sea kayaking around Dubrovnik's city walls.
- Take a Game of Thrones-themed tour led by show extras.
- Enjoy a sunset sail on a traditional Croatian karaka ship.
Bridgerton: Experience Regency-era glamour
Step into the opulent world of "Bridgerton," where romance and scandal take centre stage. This Netflix sensation has not only captured hearts but also sparked interest in its stunning filming locations across England. From the grand estates that double as the homes of the ton to the picturesque streets of Bath standing in for Regency-era London, the show's settings are as captivating as its intricate plotlines.
Imagine yourself strolling through the elegant Royal Crescent in Bath, feeling like a Bridgerton sibling on a morning promenade. Or picture a visit to Castle Howard in Yorkshire, which serves as the Duke of Hastings' magnificent residence. These real-life locations offer a chance to immerse yourself in the glamour and grace of the Regency period, minus the corsets and social pressure to secure a suitable match! Whether you're a hopeless romantic dreaming of your own Duke or simply a history enthusiast, these Bridgerton-inspired destinations promise a delightful blend of fact and fiction that'll have you swooning faster than Lady Whistledown can spread the latest gossip.
Must-see locations:
- Wilton House, Wiltshire: This grand estate serves as Hastings House and features stunning interiors that transport you back to Regency England.
- Castle Howard, Yorkshire: The magnificent Clyvedon Castle offers breathtaking gardens and opulent rooms where scenes were filmed.
- Royal Crescent, Bath: The iconic façade represents the Featheringtons’ home, making it a perfect backdrop for your Instagram feed.
Additional experiences:
- Guided Tours at Wilton House: Discover its rich history while exploring its beautiful gardens.
- Visit Bath’s Assembly Rooms: Experience Georgian elegance and perhaps even catch a themed ball or event.
- Explore Badminton House: Take a tour through this stunning estate that served as Lady Danbury’s residence.
Plan your TV-inspired escape
Ready to turn your binge-watching into a real-life adventure? Here are some tips to get started:
- Research filming locations: Many tourist boards now offer maps and guides to TV show locations.
- Book in advance: Popular spots can get crowded, especially during peak season.
- Consider a guided tour: For the full fan experience, look for tours led by local experts or even show extras.
- Explore beyond the screen: Use the show as inspiration, but don't be afraid to discover hidden gems off the tourist trail.
- Protect your journey: Don't forget to secure comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unexpected twists in your own "plot".
Whether you're dreaming of sipping café au lait in Paris or hiking through the Scottish Highlands, these TV-inspired destinations offer a perfect blend of fantasy and reality. So, why not take the leap from armchair traveller to globetrotter?
Your own epic adventure awaits! With a Gigasure travel insurance cover, we will be there with you every step of the way.
